Long-Term Impact of Wound Complications on Pelvic Floor Symptoms Following Second-Degree Tears and Episiotomy: Insights from the REPAIR Study

Wound complications after second-degree perineal tears or episiotomy occur in approximately 12% of women despite prophylactic antibiotic use.
Pelvic floor symptoms, including incontinence, prolapse, and sexual dysfunction, are common 9 to 12 months postpartum.
Women with wound complications report significantly more symptoms related to sexual function, prolapse, and negative body image.
Clinical examination corroborates higher rates of diagnostic pelvic organ prolapse in women with prior wound complications.